For those seeking a robust, reliable, and spacious vehicle, the 2016 Toyota Sequoia stands out as a premier full-size SUV. Whether you’re navigating daily family life, embarking on road trips, or tackling heavy-duty towing tasks, the Sequoia delivers a blend of comfort, capability, and advanced features that are hard to match. This model year brought key enhancements focused on safety, convenience, and in-car connectivity, making the 2016 Sequoia an even more compelling choice in its class.
What Makes the 2016 Toyota Sequoia a Top Choice?
The 2016 Toyota Sequoia is engineered to excel in multiple areas, making it a versatile vehicle for a wide range of needs. At its heart is a powerful 381-horsepower V8 engine, providing ample power for both on-road driving and demanding towing scenarios. With a towing capacity of up to 7,400 lbs, the Sequoia is well-equipped for hauling trailers, boats, and more.
Inside, the Sequoia offers seating for up to eight passengers, ensuring comfort for the whole family or large groups. The spacious cabin is complemented by an upgraded Entune® Multimedia system for 2016, keeping occupants connected and entertained on the go. For the Limited trim, a new Safety and Convenience Package adds features like Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and memory settings for driver’s seat and mirrors, further enhancing the driving experience.
Performance and Handling: Power and Poise
Under the hood of every 2016 Toyota Sequoia lies a formidable 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine. This DOHC powerplant churns out 381 horsepower at 5,600 RPM and a substantial 401 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 RPM. The engine’s broad torque curve, with 90% of peak torque available from just 2,200 rpm, ensures responsive performance in various driving conditions, especially when towing. Despite its power, the V8 is designed to run on regular-grade fuel, adding to its practicality.
Paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, the Sequoia delivers power efficiently and effectively. Available full-time four-wheel drive adds another layer of capability, providing enhanced traction and control in challenging terrains or inclement weather. The four-wheel independent suspension system contributes to a comfortable ride quality, even on rough roads, while also allowing for impressive wheel articulation when venturing off the beaten path.
Towing Prowess
The 2016 Toyota Sequoia is built for towing. Engineered to meet the SAE J2807 towing standard, it can handle trailers up to 7,400 lbs, depending on the specific model and equipment. Toyota has integrated towing features directly into the Sequoia’s design, such as a towing hitch seamlessly incorporated into the frame. The Tow/Haul mode on the transmission optimizes shift points for towing, and Trailer Sway Control, integrated with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), helps maintain stability when towing, particularly beneficial for less experienced towers. A standard rearview camera further assists with trailer hook-ups and parking maneuvers.
Agile Handling for a Full-Size SUV
Despite its size, the 2016 Toyota Sequoia offers surprisingly agile handling. Its 38-foot turning circle is commendable for its class, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Available front and rear parking sonar sensors on Limited and Platinum models further aid in parking and low-speed maneuvering by alerting the driver to obstacles. Powerful braking is provided by large ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, ensuring confident stopping power. The Sequoia SR5 rides on 18-inch wheels, while Limited and Platinum trims upgrade to 20-inch wheels, with the Platinum featuring a distinctive diamond-cut finish.
Interior Comfort and Technology: A Family-Friendly Space
The cabin of the 2016 Toyota Sequoia is designed as a comfortable and functional space for both driver and passengers. The expansive interior offers adult-sized room even in the third row, making it genuinely comfortable for up to eight occupants. Wide-opening rear doors facilitate easy entry and exit, and make child seat installation simpler. With both second and third rows folded flat, the Sequoia boasts a massive cargo area, capable of accommodating up to 120.1 cubic feet of cargo, including items as long as 11 feet. Thoughtful touches like numerous cup and bottle holders ensure convenience for everyone on board.
Entune Multimedia Upgrades for 2016
Connectivity gets a boost in the 2016 Toyota Sequoia with upgraded Entune Multimedia systems across all trims. The SR5 now comes standard with Entune Audio Plus featuring Connected Navigation via the Scout® GPS Link app on the driver’s smartphone. All Entune units are upgraded to version 2.5, incorporating Siri® Eyes Free mode for enhanced iPhone integration. Higher trims with Entune Premium Audio gain faster processing speeds thanks to dual-core processors, and the App Suite is updated with Slacker Radio and Destination Search replacing Bing. Importantly, iPhone users can now charge their devices via USB while simultaneously using Entune App Suite features.
Trim Levels and Features: Tailoring to Your Needs
The 2016 Toyota Sequoia is available in three trim levels: SR5, Limited, and Platinum, each offering a progressive increase in features and luxury.
- Sequoia SR5: The well-equipped base trim includes features like tri-zone automatic climate control, moonroof, towing package, 8-way power driver’s seat, and Entune Audio Plus.
- Sequoia Limited: Steps up with front and rear parking sonar, power liftgate, power-folding third-row seat, 20-inch alloy wheels, leather-trimmed heated front seats, and Entune Premium Audio. The new Safety and Convenience Package is also exclusive to the Limited trim.
- Sequoia Platinum: The top-of-the-line trim adds luxury features like rear load-leveling air suspension, Adaptive Variable Suspension, power seat memory, heated second-row seats, Dynamic Laser Cruise Control, and a rear-seat entertainment system with a Blu-ray player.
Comprehensive Safety Features
Toyota prioritizes safety, and the 2016 Toyota Sequoia is equipped with the STAR Safety System™, encompassing Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC), and Smart Stop Technology (SST). Four-wheel drive models replace TRAC with Active-Traction Control (A-TRAC). A tire pressure monitoring system is standard across all models.
Passive safety features include a suite of airbags: advanced front airbags, seat-mounted side airbags for front occupants, roll-sensing side curtain airbags for all three rows, and driver and front passenger knee airbags. The Limited trim’s new Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) adds an extra layer of preventative safety.
Conclusion: The 2016 Toyota Sequoia – A Capable and Comfortable Choice
The 2016 Toyota Sequoia reinforces its position as a leading full-size SUV by offering a compelling combination of power, space, comfort, and updated technology. Whether you prioritize towing capability, passenger space, or a blend of both, the Sequoia delivers. With its robust V8 engine, comfortable ride, and enhanced safety and connectivity features for the 2016 model year, the Toyota Sequoia remains an excellent choice for families and adventurers alike. Visit Miller Toyota to explore the 2016 Toyota Sequoia and experience its capabilities firsthand.
